Meet international wine business degree student Jennifer Tame as she reaches her final year at Plumpton College.
How did your journey towards studying International Wine Business begin?
Working at a local micro brewery during my gap year opened my eyes to an undiscovered world of alcohol and food. I fell in love with trying new flavours and foods, reinforced by the experiences I had whilst travelling Europe. After attending an Open Day at Plumpton, I realised that this was the degree and career for me.
What drew you to studying international wine business and what are your aims and aspirations post graduation?
I’ve always had a ‘business brain’ and wanted to focus on this area. I knew that there would be elements of production within the business course, and the wonderful thing about a course at Plumpton is that I am able to gain experience in the vineyard or winery if desired.
Now you are in your final year, what have the highlights been of studying this course? Any stand out study trips, research projects etc?
Plenty! Last year’s Bordeaux trip was particularly fun. There is something really special about going to one of the most famous wine regions in the world amongst peers who are equally passionate and enthusiastic about wine as you are. Going with Plumpton opened doors that otherwise might have been closed and producers and professionals are always interested when you say that you are a wine student from England.
How do you think this degree and the teaching at Plumpton will equip you for a future in the global wine industry?
One of the key highlights on this degree programme are the networking opportunities. Having access to industry experts and events is a great way to learn and grow, alongside putting yourself forward for job opportunities. I have already undertaken two internship roles at UK wineries which otherwise would have been hard to come by. The wine industry is small, and Plumpton is unique in its offerings, so it is easier to stand out in graduate roles.
What are your future aims and aspirations in the wine industry?
I am looking to combine my on-trade experience with an off-trade role. I’d like to go into distribution or trade, either for a supplier or a producer. I’m also open to roles within the broader drinks industry – there are lots of exciting changes taking place and it would be great to look at consumer needs from a more holistic angle.
Can you give us an insight into your studies at Plumpton College?
One of the more unique elements of the course is that we study on site two full days a week rather than lectures being spread out across five days. This provides a great opportunity to work whilst gaining greater industry experience. The small class sizes allow everyone to share their thoughts on a topic at hand. And of course wine tasting is involved!
What are the key opportunities or challenges facing your work or research for the future?
A big issue at the moment is the movement away from alcohol consumption, especially in younger generations. It also goes hand in hand with economic challenges being faced by most stakeholders – rising costs are affecting on-trade venues, producers and consumers. I’m welcoming the challenge though. One of my focus areas is on consumer behaviour and how to make wine more accessible which is a key topic during National Wine Careers Week that starts here at Plumpton on 9 May:
www.winecareersweek.co.uk
What are your thoughts on the new Centenary Smart Vineyard project that recently launched at Plumpton?
It’s very exciting and reinforces the position of Plumpton College as both innovators and educators within the agricultural industry. Combining the agricultural world with the digital one is the future, and it’s great to see new ideas being brought to the UK wine industry.
As your degree journey is in its final stage, what advice would you give future students interested in studying wine?
Say yes to everything! Try all the wines (even if you’re not sure you like it), go on as many of the trips as you can, talk to everyone and work in as many different areas of the industry that you can get into. As a student you will never have as much free time or opportunity so make the most of it.
To find out more about degree pathways: www.plumpton.ac.uk/university-courses
Book onto the next Open Day and Annual Spring Fair on 9 May: www.plumpton.ac.uk/news-events/calendar-of-events/event/open-day-spring-fair
